Phenolphthalein test - control element

It's no secret that after usingmedical instruments and their products must be carefully processed in order to remove any kinds of contaminants. Different methods are used for this. After treatment with detergents in accordance with the guidelines MZ 28-6 / 13 dated 08.06.1982, a phenolphthalein test must be performed.

Assignment of samples

To assess the quality of treatment (laundering) withThe surface of tools of any detergents and other contaminants prepare different solutions. The phenolphthalein test is only one of the stages of testing for the presence of a residual amount of detergents, namely, their alkaline components. To prepare it, a solution of this substance is prepared. According to the Methodological recommendations, it is necessary to make a 1% solution of phenolphthalein. Immediately after its preparation, they begin to evaluate the quality of the processing of tools.

Carrying out phenolphthalein test

It is carried out in several stages. First of all, 2-3 drops of phenolphthalein solution are applied to the instrument. It must necessarily get on the connections of moving parts and the place of contact with the wound surface. This is due to the danger of contact of hazardous chemical and organic substances with the patient's blood.

At the next stage, the laboratory assistant checks the degreestaining the solution. The phenolphthalein test indicates a different concentration of alkalis. The appearance of pink staining indicates the presence of poorly washed surfactants. The presence of a brownish sample indicates the presence of rust, as well as chlorine-containing oxidants. In other cases, the coloration has pink-lilac shades. When a change in the color of the sample is detected, the entire batch of processed instruments is sent to a second rinse with running water. Then they are treated with distilled water.

After washing, the instruments are placed in aspecial containers with detergent solution. They are subjected to repeated pre-sterilization treatment. Particular attention is paid to the quality of cleaning of catheters and other hollow products. For this, a phenolphthalein test is performed inside the instrument by injecting the solution with a pipette or syringe. The reagent should remain inside the product for 30-60 seconds. Then it is poured on a napkin and compared with indicators.

Sample Conditions

In accordance with the current rulesThe phenolphthalein test is performed in the compartments (1% of the simultaneously processed instruments, but not less than 3 units - before they are loaded for sterilization); centralized sterilization (1% of any product name that was processed per shift). The results of the control are recorded in the form No. 366 / U.

Control by specialists of disinfection andsanitary-epidemiological stations for pre-sterilization cleaning in medical and preventive institutions is carried out quarterly. In case of poor quality treatment of any surgical instruments and medical devices, infection of wounds during surgery, development of hepatitis and AIDS are possible.